Therapists in New York, NY

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Photo of Lois Wedin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lois Wedin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023
I'm an interactive individual and couples therapist who believes that sometimes a short series of focused sessions can resolve a painful dilemma, while complicated, deeply rooted issues may call for a substantial course of treatment. In either case, your therapy should look like nobody else's -- because it takes its shape uniquely around you. I'm experienced and well-trained. When we meet, I'll listen with care and speak honestly about how I see your particular situation and what I think would help.
I'm an interactive individual and couples therapist who believes that sometimes a short series of focused sessions can resolve a painful dilemma, while complicated, deeply rooted issues may call for a substantial course of treatment. In either case, your therapy should look like nobody else's -- because it takes its shape uniquely around you. I'm experienced and well-trained. When we meet, I'll listen with care and speak honestly about how I see your particular situation and what I think would help.
(646) 351-1795 View (646) 351-1795
Photo of Cynthia Willis, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Willis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10075
I am an analytically and EMDR trained psychotherapist. Having practiced more than 20 years in NYC, I work primarily with adults and adolescents suffering not only from depression and anxiety but also a wide range of issues arising from personal relationships, career challenges, and life transitions. These conditions often are very treatable and progress is fairly rapid.
I am an analytically and EMDR trained psychotherapist. Having practiced more than 20 years in NYC, I work primarily with adults and adolescents suffering not only from depression and anxiety but also a wide range of issues arising from personal relationships, career challenges, and life transitions. These conditions often are very treatable and progress is fairly rapid.
(646) 553-6459 View (646) 553-6459
Photo of Elisabeth Goldberg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisabeth Goldberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 18 years of experience. I work with men approaching and in their 50s that are thriving professionally but failing personally. My wit and dark humor resonate well with this group of clients. From my academic background in Evolutionary Neuroscience at Cornell, I believe that men are the drivers of their families, while women hold the children together (the hardest work of all). Children need their fathers in different ways than their mothers, and making meaning of this distinction is the key to creating a successful roadmap for your life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 18 years of experience. I work with men approaching and in their 50s that are thriving professionally but failing personally. My wit and dark humor resonate well with this group of clients. From my academic background in Evolutionary Neuroscience at Cornell, I believe that men are the drivers of their families, while women hold the children together (the hardest work of all). Children need their fathers in different ways than their mothers, and making meaning of this distinction is the key to creating a successful roadmap for your life.
(646) 846-5028 View (646) 846-5028
Photo of Ariana Ladera, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ariana Ladera
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
As an empathetic therapist specializing in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, motivation issues, and various traumas, including intergenerational, childhood, and sexual, I offer a safe space free from judgment—a place where you can freely express your innermost thoughts and emotions. We will embark on a collaborative journey to address your unique therapeutic goals. Whether you’re feeling immobilized by life’s challenges, navigating significant transitions, or grappling with unresolved trauma, our sessions will be tailored to empower you toward a deeper sense of self and well-being.
As an empathetic therapist specializing in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, motivation issues, and various traumas, including intergenerational, childhood, and sexual, I offer a safe space free from judgment—a place where you can freely express your innermost thoughts and emotions. We will embark on a collaborative journey to address your unique therapeutic goals. Whether you’re feeling immobilized by life’s challenges, navigating significant transitions, or grappling with unresolved trauma, our sessions will be tailored to empower you toward a deeper sense of self and well-being.
(646) 703-0137 View (646) 703-0137
Photo of Kaylyn Watterson, PhD, Psychologist
Kaylyn Watterson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I feel that an honest and emotionally safe relationship is necessary for fostering positive change. We will identify your unique strengths, while also helping you alleviate psychological distress. I tailor the therapy and treatment goals to meet your needs, and I will ask for your feedback. I conceptualize human suffering from a psychodynamic lens, which means that I am interested in how developmental factors, emotional functioning, and interpersonal patterns affect your relationship with yourself and important people in your life.
I feel that an honest and emotionally safe relationship is necessary for fostering positive change. We will identify your unique strengths, while also helping you alleviate psychological distress. I tailor the therapy and treatment goals to meet your needs, and I will ask for your feedback. I conceptualize human suffering from a psychodynamic lens, which means that I am interested in how developmental factors, emotional functioning, and interpersonal patterns affect your relationship with yourself and important people in your life.
(929) 545-6682 View (929) 545-6682
Photo of Brennan Spector, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brennan Spector
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Brennan works with adults, adolescents, and couples looking to deepen their relationships to self and other. His approach is rooted in psychodynamic and Gestalt counseling theories, along with art, literature, and Buddhist psychology. Brennan strives to create a counseling relationship that is deeply meaningful, often funny, and always warm and inviting.
Brennan works with adults, adolescents, and couples looking to deepen their relationships to self and other. His approach is rooted in psychodynamic and Gestalt counseling theories, along with art, literature, and Buddhist psychology. Brennan strives to create a counseling relationship that is deeply meaningful, often funny, and always warm and inviting.
(646) 212-1541 View (646) 212-1541
Stephanie Wilson
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023
What brought you here and how can I help? My name is Stephanie and I believe therapy is a powerful tool for emotional change and growth. I am an empathetic, trauma informed therapist providing person-centered, collaborative treatment through a primarily relational approach. I provide a safe environment for exploring the source of your challenges and highlighting those pesky unconscious behavioral patterns that produce personal roadblocks. Let’s unblock them together!
What brought you here and how can I help? My name is Stephanie and I believe therapy is a powerful tool for emotional change and growth. I am an empathetic, trauma informed therapist providing person-centered, collaborative treatment through a primarily relational approach. I provide a safe environment for exploring the source of your challenges and highlighting those pesky unconscious behavioral patterns that produce personal roadblocks. Let’s unblock them together!
(914) 350-6543 View (914) 350-6543
Photo of Carolyn Weverbergh, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Weverbergh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023
Despite the adversity and struggles we face, there’s often a place of hope and light in ourselves that we overlook. Taking the time to prioritize oneself takes strength and presents the opportunity to recognize one’s ability to grow. Together, we can understand and learn how to better manage the barriers that present themselves and that can get in the way of you attaining the quality of life you deserve.
Despite the adversity and struggles we face, there’s often a place of hope and light in ourselves that we overlook. Taking the time to prioritize oneself takes strength and presents the opportunity to recognize one’s ability to grow. Together, we can understand and learn how to better manage the barriers that present themselves and that can get in the way of you attaining the quality of life you deserve.
(347) 834-9718 View (347) 834-9718
Photo of Parker Douglas, LP, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Parker Douglas
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
We create personal narratives to make sense of our subjective experience of life. Embedded in our narrative, are the internalized images of ourselves that we draw on to explain our lives (e.g. unworthy, undesirable, shameful, superior, unappreciated etc.). In therapy we examine the images that so often lead us to make the unconscious choices that return us to the painfully familiar circumstances that have come to define our life. As we become aware of the ways in which our images have unwittingly influenced our choices, we will have the opportunity to make new choices that may better support living the life to which we aspire.
We create personal narratives to make sense of our subjective experience of life. Embedded in our narrative, are the internalized images of ourselves that we draw on to explain our lives (e.g. unworthy, undesirable, shameful, superior, unappreciated etc.). In therapy we examine the images that so often lead us to make the unconscious choices that return us to the painfully familiar circumstances that have come to define our life. As we become aware of the ways in which our images have unwittingly influenced our choices, we will have the opportunity to make new choices that may better support living the life to which we aspire.
(646) 961-4598 View (646) 961-4598
Photo of Kevin Rustam, PsyD, Psychologist
Kevin Rustam
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed by negative emotions or adverse life events. Perhaps you find yourself lacking fulfillment in one or more areas of your life. Whether you are facing present-day stressors or coping with difficulties of a more enduring nature, I work with you collaboratively to get to the root of your concerns. This journey of self-discovery may help you become more in tune with your emotional experiences, feel more empowered, and engage more satisfyingly in life's pursuits.
Hello and welcome. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed by negative emotions or adverse life events. Perhaps you find yourself lacking fulfillment in one or more areas of your life. Whether you are facing present-day stressors or coping with difficulties of a more enduring nature, I work with you collaboratively to get to the root of your concerns. This journey of self-discovery may help you become more in tune with your emotional experiences, feel more empowered, and engage more satisfyingly in life's pursuits.
(929) 430-2955 View (929) 430-2955
Photo of Matthew Braman, LCSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Braman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Hey, Dude. Fatherhood is an adjustment journey. You need to get out of your head, decompress, and speak freely, but you don't want to burden your relationships. You want a therapist who will listen to you and join you through the truth. You need to do the work. You need accountability in your life. You want to accumulate the least amount of regrets. You need therapy to challenge AND support you because your fatherhood outlasts you; it lives on forever in the legacy that you're building in the here and now.
Hey, Dude. Fatherhood is an adjustment journey. You need to get out of your head, decompress, and speak freely, but you don't want to burden your relationships. You want a therapist who will listen to you and join you through the truth. You need to do the work. You need accountability in your life. You want to accumulate the least amount of regrets. You need therapy to challenge AND support you because your fatherhood outlasts you; it lives on forever in the legacy that you're building in the here and now.
(678) 771-6302 View (678) 771-6302
Photo of Leslie K Bornstein, LCSW, BCD, PSYCHOA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie K Bornstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, PSYCHOA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I am a certified psychoanalyst who specializes in both individual and couples psychotherapy. I have 30 years experience with patients who suffer from anxiety, panic disorder, depression and OCD, co-dependent relationships and BPD. No two patients are alike so I use a multi disciplinary approach and tailor the treatment to the patient's needs and goals. I take an empathic stance and help you to be curious and non judgmental (my stance) about your issues and work on symptom reduction while gaining understanding and mastery over the issues that are preventing you from living your best life! I am quite skilled at working with couples!
I am a certified psychoanalyst who specializes in both individual and couples psychotherapy. I have 30 years experience with patients who suffer from anxiety, panic disorder, depression and OCD, co-dependent relationships and BPD. No two patients are alike so I use a multi disciplinary approach and tailor the treatment to the patient's needs and goals. I take an empathic stance and help you to be curious and non judgmental (my stance) about your issues and work on symptom reduction while gaining understanding and mastery over the issues that are preventing you from living your best life! I am quite skilled at working with couples!
(212) 757-2692 View (212) 757-2692
Photo of Nestor Borrero-Bracero, PhD, Psychologist
Nestor Borrero-Bracero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Feeling weighed down by sadness and anxiety from challenging experiences and relationships? I aim to guide individuals to thrive in their lives and relationships. In a safe, supportive environment, explore your feelings and understand yourself better. Whether improving relationships, managing stress, anxiety, or depression, or navigating life's transitions, I'll be your empathetic ear. I value cultural differences and will address your unique needs. Through self-reflection, you will develop healthier relationships with yourself and others. I invite you to take the first steps towards your transformation and send me a message.
Feeling weighed down by sadness and anxiety from challenging experiences and relationships? I aim to guide individuals to thrive in their lives and relationships. In a safe, supportive environment, explore your feelings and understand yourself better. Whether improving relationships, managing stress, anxiety, or depression, or navigating life's transitions, I'll be your empathetic ear. I value cultural differences and will address your unique needs. Through self-reflection, you will develop healthier relationships with yourself and others. I invite you to take the first steps towards your transformation and send me a message.
(929) 238-9295 View (929) 238-9295
Photo of Lauren Finn - Lauren Finn, LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lauren Finn, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Hello! I am happy you are here. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stuck. At times, these feelings may affect your work, personal life, or self-esteem. It's possible that you do not know why you have these feelings, but you would like to learn about how your mind works, understand your past and your relationships, and learn how to navigate your world better.
Hello! I am happy you are here. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stuck. At times, these feelings may affect your work, personal life, or self-esteem. It's possible that you do not know why you have these feelings, but you would like to learn about how your mind works, understand your past and your relationships, and learn how to navigate your world better.
View
Photo of Dominica Aufiero, LCSW
Dominica Aufiero
LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021
I have a holistic view in healing and deeply value the client-therapist relationship. Creativity is the true essence of psychotherapy. I value clients partnership in their healing and invite them to explore their inner insight and creativity along with my therapeutic guidance. I draw from clinical approaches such as CBT, culturally sensitive, eclectic, integrative, jungian, humanistic, transpersonal, strength based and gestalt. My experience has brought me to see valuable psychotherapy as when the client becomes aware that their presenting problem can be healed by adopting and integrating positive and healthy perceptions and actions.
I have a holistic view in healing and deeply value the client-therapist relationship. Creativity is the true essence of psychotherapy. I value clients partnership in their healing and invite them to explore their inner insight and creativity along with my therapeutic guidance. I draw from clinical approaches such as CBT, culturally sensitive, eclectic, integrative, jungian, humanistic, transpersonal, strength based and gestalt. My experience has brought me to see valuable psychotherapy as when the client becomes aware that their presenting problem can be healed by adopting and integrating positive and healthy perceptions and actions.
(516) 690-7950 View (516) 690-7950
Photo of Judith C Lobel, PhD, Psychologist
Judith C Lobel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I have been in practice for over 25 years and find my work very rewarding. I believe that therapy can help people feel more confident about their place in the world--more confident that the balance of goodness within themselves will allow them to go forward with their lives. I feel respect and gratitude towards my patients; their readiness to explore their areas of vulnerability has helped me to understand similar vulnerabilities within myself. I have learned from many sources; in this sense my approach is eclectic. It is important to tailor frequency and duration of treatment for each patient.
I have been in practice for over 25 years and find my work very rewarding. I believe that therapy can help people feel more confident about their place in the world--more confident that the balance of goodness within themselves will allow them to go forward with their lives. I feel respect and gratitude towards my patients; their readiness to explore their areas of vulnerability has helped me to understand similar vulnerabilities within myself. I have learned from many sources; in this sense my approach is eclectic. It is important to tailor frequency and duration of treatment for each patient.
(646) 681-7489 View (646) 681-7489
Photo of Matt Lundquist, LCSW, MSEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Lundquist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007
Therapy that doesn't suck? You're not broken and you don't need to be fixed. Sure, finding a therapist is hard, but someone who appreciates that is just the beginning. I'm a Columbia-trained, holistic and non-diagnostic therapist and I work well with those who are suspicious of therapist, prefer to avoid medication, or want to avoid a cookie-cutter approach. I don't start with labeling or plugging you into a preexisting program. I won't put you in a diagnostic box or sit passively while you do all the work.
Therapy that doesn't suck? You're not broken and you don't need to be fixed. Sure, finding a therapist is hard, but someone who appreciates that is just the beginning. I'm a Columbia-trained, holistic and non-diagnostic therapist and I work well with those who are suspicious of therapist, prefer to avoid medication, or want to avoid a cookie-cutter approach. I don't start with labeling or plugging you into a preexisting program. I won't put you in a diagnostic box or sit passively while you do all the work.
(646) 351-1728 View (646) 351-1728
Photo of Anna Fekete - Dr. Anna Fekete, PhD, LMHC, LCAT, Counselor
Dr. Anna Fekete
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LCAT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I am a clin. psychologist, psychotherapist, clin. hypnotherapist, coach, marriage/couple and sex therapist, psychedelic-assisted therapist, and systemic family constellations therapist. I have a large international clientele and 25+ years of professional experience with various techniques of psychotherapy, couples therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, somatic (body-mind) therapies, trauma-focused therapy and psychedelic psychotherapies (ketamine, cannabis, etc.). I provide clin. supervision to professional psychotherapists, counselors and psychotherapy interns. For more information, please, check out my website: www.drannafekete.com
I am a clin. psychologist, psychotherapist, clin. hypnotherapist, coach, marriage/couple and sex therapist, psychedelic-assisted therapist, and systemic family constellations therapist. I have a large international clientele and 25+ years of professional experience with various techniques of psychotherapy, couples therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, somatic (body-mind) therapies, trauma-focused therapy and psychedelic psychotherapies (ketamine, cannabis, etc.). I provide clin. supervision to professional psychotherapists, counselors and psychotherapy interns. For more information, please, check out my website: www.drannafekete.com
(347) 329-3419 View (347) 329-3419
Photo of Paul Nelson Sex Therapist For Men, LMHC, MS, Therapy, Counselor
Paul Nelson Sex Therapist For Men
Counselor, LMHC, MS, Therapy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
I specialize in areas of men's issues, male sexual function, and sexuality. Most men will experience performance issues and sexual anxiety at some point. There are solutions - let's figure out what's going on. I usually offer a combination of psychotherapy and education. And, since we're on the topic, remember - No one told anyone how to have sex, we all just figured it out from friends and porn. Let's undo all the cultural lies you have believed your whole life about sex. This is a no shame zone. I have heard it all. Founder: www.franktalk.org.
I specialize in areas of men's issues, male sexual function, and sexuality. Most men will experience performance issues and sexual anxiety at some point. There are solutions - let's figure out what's going on. I usually offer a combination of psychotherapy and education. And, since we're on the topic, remember - No one told anyone how to have sex, we all just figured it out from friends and porn. Let's undo all the cultural lies you have believed your whole life about sex. This is a no shame zone. I have heard it all. Founder: www.franktalk.org.
(914) 350-4908 View (914) 350-4908
Photo of Jay F Pinkerton, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay F Pinkerton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Finding a Therapist can be a frightening first step - an important step - in dealing with what gets in our way and prevents personal and professional growth. I have a special concern for men and women of the LBGT communities, working with them as they discover their sense of self and belonging. As a former Franciscan, I take a particular Joy in working with clergy and religious men and women in their unique struggles of commitment, institutional obligations and Self. The longing for "The Other" and the desire to know my Self are profoundly intertwined.
Finding a Therapist can be a frightening first step - an important step - in dealing with what gets in our way and prevents personal and professional growth. I have a special concern for men and women of the LBGT communities, working with them as they discover their sense of self and belonging. As a former Franciscan, I take a particular Joy in working with clergy and religious men and women in their unique struggles of commitment, institutional obligations and Self. The longing for "The Other" and the desire to know my Self are profoundly intertwined.
(646) 600-8126 View (646) 600-8126
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New York, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
62% Cigna and Evernorth
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in New York, NY see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New York?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.